Captain (CAPT) George Howell is the 21st Director, JIATF West. He previously served as Chief of Staff of JIATF West. CAPT Howell is from Charlotte, NC and a graduate of North Carolina State University class of 2000, where he received a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Electrical Engineering. His post-graduate education includes a Master in Engineering Management (M.E.M) from Old Dominion University. He entered Active Duty service in December 1999.

At sea, CAPT Howell first served onboard USS HENRY M. JACKSON (SSBN 730) in Bangor, WA. During his tour, HENRY M. JACKSON conducted four strategic deterrent patrols and began an Engineered Refueling Overhaul. In November 2007, he reported to USS SANTA FE (SSN-763) as Engineer Officer. During his tour on SANTA FE, he completed a Depot Modernization Period and a change of homeport from Portsmouth, NH to Pearl Harbor, HI. In October 2008 he executed split-tour orders as Engineer Officer onboard USS KEY WEST (SSN-722). During his tour as Engineer, he completed a Western Pacific Deployment and the first 8 months of an Engineered Overhaul. USS KEY WEST was awarded the Submarine Squadron Three Battle Efficiency ‘E’ award for 2009 and the Engineering ‘E’ award for 2010. In July 2013, he served onboard USS TEXAS (SSN 775) as Executive Officer until April 2015. During his tour on TEXAS, he completed a two-year Extended Drydocking Selected Restricted Availability (EDSRA) and an Eastern Pacific Deployment. USS TEXAS was awarded the CNO Safety Excellence Award and the Personnel ‘P’ Award in 2014. In November 2017, he assumed Command of USS MISSOURI (SSN 780), conducted an interfleet transfer, a two-year EDSRA, and deployment preparations. USS MISSOURI was awarded the Battle Efficiency ‘E’ award for 2019.

CAPT Howell’s shore assignments include Flag Aide to the Director, Submarine Warfare Division (OPNAV N97). He served as the Force Radiological Controls Officer for Submarine Force Atlantic Fleet (COMSUBLANT) in Norfolk, VA. He served as the Chief Staff Officer at Naval Special Warfare Group Eight in Pearl Harbor, HI to include temporary duty as the N3 deputy at Naval Special Warfare Development Group. He served as Deputy Commander for Submarine Operations at Commander, Task Force 69 in Naples, Italy. He served as the Senior Board Member on the Nuclear Propulsion Examining Board at Commander, U.S Pacific Fleet.

CAPT Howell is privileged to wear the Battle Efficiency ‘E’ and the Navy Unit Commendation Medal. His personal decorations include the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Navy Commendation Medal, and the Navy Achievement Medal. CAPT Howell and his wife have two sons and a daughter.

Last Updated: 2 July 2025